The Kyoto Imperial Palace is a must-see treasure among places to visit in Kyoto. As the former home of Japan’s emperors for nearly 500 years, this huge palace complex offers visitors a glimpse into Japan’s rich imperial history. Located in central Kyoto, it’s surrounded by peaceful gardens and ancient walls that transport you back in time. While exploring things to do in Kyoto, you shouldn’t miss the palace’s stunning architecture, including the stately Shishinden ceremonial hall and the beautiful Oikeniwa garden.
Visitors can join free guided tours to learn fascinating stories about court life and royal ceremonies. Our Japan tour packages include the Imperial Palace as a highlight, often combined with visits to nearby temples like Fushimi Inari Tiasha, Kinkakuji Temple, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and the famous Nijo Castle.
Pro tip: visit during cherry blossom season when the grounds transform into a pink wonderland or autumn when the maple trees put on a fiery fashion show that would make any emperor jealous. In this blog, we’ll take you through its history, features, ticketing details, and everything else you need to know to make your visit a memorable experience.
The Kyoto Imperial Palace has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the late 8th century. During the Heian Period (794–1185), Kyoto was established as Japan’s capital city. At the heart of this capital stood the Imperial Palace Kyoto, known as “Kyoto Gosho” in Japanese, which served as the residence of the emperor and the center of political and cultural activity. Over the centuries, the palace has undergone several reconstructions due to damage from fires and natural disasters. The current structure was rebuilt in 1855, maintaining the traditional architectural style that defines its historical importance. Though no longer the emperor’s official residence—since the capital moved to Tokyo in 1868—the Imperial Palace Kyoto remains a revered landmark, preserving the legacy of Japan’s imperial past.
For over a thousand years, the Kyoto Palace played a significant role in shaping Japan’s history. It was here that emperors performed important rituals, issued proclamations, and hosted dignitaries. Today, it serves as a historical site where visitors can experience the grandeur of Japan’s imperial traditions. Exploring the Imperial Palace Kyoto is one of the best things to do in Japan.
Untold Story: The Kyoto Imperial Palace has a lesser-known architectural feature designed to ward off evil spirits. According to traditional beliefs, the northeast direction, known as “kimon,” is considered unlucky. To counteract this, the palace’s northeast corner, called “Sarugatsuji,” was constructed with a concave shape, effectively eliminating a direct northeast-facing corner. Additionally, a wooden monkey statue was placed under the eaves of this corner, as monkeys were believed to protect against misfortune.
This unique design reflects the palace architects’ deep consideration of spiritual beliefs, seamlessly integrating them into the structural layout to ensure the safety and prosperity of its imperial inhabitants.
Suggested Read: Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
